Expressing his sadness at the news of the death of Senator Edward Kennedy, Bishop Séamus Hegarty, Bishop of Derry and chair of the Irish Episcopal Council for Emigrants said:

"The Irish immigrant community in the United States has lost a very strong advocate for justice. Among his many works, his efforts in seeking to enact comprehensive immigration reform made the wider public aware of the plight of immigrants and of Irish immigrants in particular.

"Senator Kennedy will be remembered for his strong support for Irish causes, including the peace process in Northern Ireland.

"I offer my deepest sympathy to his family and friends. May he rest in peace."